Dental Procedures

Anesthesia

Isoflurane gas anesthesia and modern methods are only part of the picture; electronic monitoring and attention to our patients is also key. Your pet’s safety is our primary concern! Pre-anesthetic blood testing is our medical standard, and if there is a concern with your pet’s blood tests, the veterinarians will determine the best course of action. Some test results may require postponing the procedure until the pet receives treatment for an underlying condition.

During ALL anesthetic procedures we continually monitor your pets vital signs (blood pressure, tidal CO2, pulse oximeter, heart rate, ECG, and body temperature). An IV catheter is used in order to continually administer IV fluids during anesthesia, and pain medications as needed.

Our Dental Team

Dr. Gilvey is a member of the American Veterinary Dental Society. Each of our staff veterinarians is qualified as a veterinary dentist. Our staff includes registered veterinary technicians, licensed in North Carolina, and other trained dental technicians performing dental procedures. This well educated, experienced team enables Parkway Animal Hospital and Laser Center to offer basic and advanced dental procedures on-site.

Dental Care

We practice Oral Assessment, Treatment, and Prevention. Your pet receives an oral assessment at each preventive care exam (semi) annually. In addition, we recommend use of a periodontal screening test (Orastrip) that will quantitatively assess underlying disease.

Regular professional cleaning is important to maintaining your pet’s oral and overall health. While under anesthesia, your pet receives a full mouth digital x-ray, because 60% of the tooth lies below the gum line. This enables us to assess root and bone health. We use modern and safe ultrasonic cleaning method to clean each tooth thoroughly – above and below the gum line. Dental technicians polish teeth to create a smooth, lustrous tooth surface more resistant to plaque buildup. Fluoride treatments help strengthen enamel and reduce tooth sensitivity. Specialized dental sealants are recommended to reduce tarter build – up, and help to protect your pets teeth.

Prevention of periodontal disease can be achieved with a few easy steps. Following a dental procedure, your pet’s dental sealant can be replenished at home. Combined with brushing your pet’s teeth every 2-3 days, your pet’s dental hygiene will be at its best. Then, at each subsequent preventive care exam, use the Orastrip to assess overall dental health. Preventing periodontal disease contributes to extending your pet’s life.

Oral Surgery

Our veterinarians and dental technicians have been fully trained in the event your pet needs dental extractions or other oral surgical procedures.